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Roundabouts in Portugal

Portugal

Although roundabouts in traffic are quite common in Portugal, nobody knows how to correctly drive in them.

Usually, the right line is being used to go either streight or for right turns.
The left lane is usually for straight (if there are 2 exit lanes) or left turns.

In Portugal, everyone seems to wait until both lanes within the roundabout are empty, before entering. And nobody is using the correct lanes.

People enter on the right lane but still go left.
People on the left lane still go right.

When exiting a roundabout, people seem to swerve right in front of you and taking the exit.

I live in Peniche and there are at least 2 accidents per week in those roundabouts.

3 comments

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Comments3

  • Purple Mustard

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    May 26, 2025

    I believe that the actual rule in Portugal is everyone in the left lane, only use right lane if going directly right.
    Once “in” the circle, then you can move between lanes.
    Its strange, and tend to rather do what you say above.

  • Salmon Jaguar

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    May 26, 2025

    You forgot to mention that nobody uses indicators too

    • Aquamarine Pie

      •

      May 1

      And even if you do use indicators drivers still seem surprised and have to emergency brake when you go ¾ around the roundabout lol.